When most people think of water parks, they probably think of water slides and wave pools with bare-bones design. Universal’s Volcano Bay isn’t that kind of water park. With charming theming, a vibrant backstory, a host of island-inspired dining options, and plenty of rides for guests of all ages and swimming abilities, the Universal Volcano Bay Water Theme Park is an awesome addition to any Orlando vacation.
That’s right – Volcano Bay is so over-the-top that Universal calls it a “water theme park”, making it the third gate at the Universal Orlando Resort.
Are you planning on making a splash at Volcano Bay at Universal Studios Florida? If so, we’re here to help! Read on as we break down everything you need to know about Universal’s water park, from attractions to tickets and everything in between.
Water Is Life and Life Is Joy at Universal Volcano Bay Water Park
From the moment you set foot in Volcano Bay, you are transported to the South Pacific island of Volcano Bay, the ancient home of the Waturi people. According to legend, Volcano Bay was created by the vengeful fire god Krakatau, to right a grievous wrong. Tai Nui, Krakatau’s daughter, fell in love with Kala, a boy from Earth. But Krakatau, who was overprotective to a fault, did not approve of the budding romance.
In a fit of fury, Krakatau exiled Kala to the sky for all eternity, where he changed into the Moon. Struck by grief, Tai Nui cried and cried, her tears turning into the Sea. But Krakatau wasn’t pleased by what he saw. Realizing that he had crushed his daughter’s happiness, he sought to make things right again.
So, he reached deep into the earth, heaved it toward the heavens, and made the storied volcano of Volcano Bay. Then, determined to never let his anger get the best of him again, he transformed his jealousy and rage into the fire spirit Vol and trapped him in the bowels of the fiery mountain.
Eventually, seafaring people known as the Waturi made their way to Volcano Bay and made it their home. As the story goes, the Waturi were in search of a new island to call their own, as well as a mythical fish called Kunuku who was prophesied to be the one to guide them there.
Exploring every corner of the South Pacific by outrigger canoes, the Waturi soaked up the cultures of the people they met as they tried to track down their destiny. Finally, fortune smiled upon them and they spied Kunuku frolicking in the water. The next day, they landed on the shores of Volcano Bay. There they celebrated the water that brought them there and the people and creatures they met along the way by creating the traditions and experiences you get to enjoy today.
Immersive, vibrant, enchanting. The details here are innumerable, and truly one of the highlights of any visit to this beautiful water park. And if all this backstory doesn’t get you excited, just wait, there’s more.
Getting to Volcano Bay in Orlando
Universal’s Volcano Bay Water Park is typically open most days of the year, although it may be closed from time to time to allow for refurbishment or due to weather. When it is open, Volcano Bay hours are typically from 10am to 7pm during the weekdays or 9am to 8pm depending on the time of year. During the busy season, and especially due to COVID-19, the park does have a tendency to hit capacity early on in the day, so plan your trip accordingly if visiting Volcano Bay is a must.
Volcano Bay is located right next to Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort. As a result, with views of the park and a walking path that takes guests directly to the park, this is definitely the best Universal hotel if visiting Volcano Bay is a priority. Other Volcano Bay hotels include Universal’s Aventura Hotel and the Loews Sapphire Falls Resort.
For guests staying at other Universal resorts or who would rather not walk over, free bus transportation is provided. If you choose to drive, you will park your car in the main parking structure next to Universal CityWalk Orlando. From there, it’s just a short, complimentary shuttle ride to the front gate.
Volcano Bay Tickets & Prices
Tickets for Universal Orlando will vary in price depending on which day you choose to visit – this includes Universal’s water park as well. Thanks to the special Florida Resident rates, those that live in the Sunshine State will be able to visit Volcano Bay for a little bit less than those that live elsewhere. Keep in mind that if you purchase a Florida Resident Ticket, there are blockout dates and you will need to show proof of residency when you get to the parks.
In addition to resident discounts, the longer you choose to visit Universal Orlando, the cheaper your daily ticket price will be. For example, while 3-Park – 2-Day Tickets with park-to-park access may be $156.50 each day for non-resident adults,
Guests wanting to purchase Volcano Bay tickets have a few different choices:
1-Day Volcano Bay Tickets
1-Day Volcano Bay Florida Resident Tickets start at $65 for children ages 3-9 and $70 for adults, while 1-Day Volcano Bay Tickets for folks who live everywhere else start at $75 per child and $80 per adult.
This is a great option if you’re a local or Florida resident in general, or for those who might be visiting Disney World or other Orlando-area attractions during their stay – but not Universal Studios or Islands of Adventure – who prefer Volcano Bay to other water parks in the area like Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach at Disney World. However, if you’re planning to stop by other Universal Orlando theme parks as well, then we recommend you choose one of the options below instead.
One Park Per Day 3-Park – 3-Day (or More) Tickets
One Park Per Day 3-Park – 3-Day Florida Resident Tickets start at $70 per day for children ages 3-9 and $72.67 per day for adults, while One Park Per Day 3-Park – 2-Day Tickets for non-residents start at $87.67 per day for children and $91 per day for adults. In contrast, 3-Park – 4-Day Tickets without park-to-park access start at only $71.75 per day for kids and $74.25 per day for adults (there is no Florida resident discount for tickets covering 4 days or more).
As you can tell from the name, unlike the more expensive park-to-park ticket options, this ticket only gives you access to one of the three Universal Orlando theme parks for each day of your trip. Basically, if you decide to kick off your 3-day Universal vacation with a dip in Volcano Bay, then that’s the only day you’ll be able to visit for the length of your stay. While it is considerably cheaper, this option doesn’t allow you as much flexibility as those with park-to-park access. So, if you like having a bit more freedom during your vacations, a One Park Per Day Ticket may make you feel trapped.
Park-to-Park 3-Park – 2-Day (or More) Tickets
Park-to-Park 3-Park – 2-Day Florida Resident Tickets start at $121 per day for children ages 3-9 and $125 per day for adults, while Park-to-Park 3-Park – 2-Day Tickets for non-residents start at $151.50 per day for children and $156.50 per day for adults. In contrast, 3-Park – 3-Day Florida Resident Tickets with park-to-park access start at only $86 per day for kids and $88.67 per day for adults, while non-Florida resident 3-Park – 3-Day Tickets with park-to-park access start at only $107.67 per day for kids and $111 per day for adults
As the name indicates, this ticket lets you jump between each of the Universal Orlando theme parks, Volcano Bay included, for the number of days designated when you buy your tickets. We love this option because it gives you the freedom to hop around to whichever park you want rather than confining you to just one park for the day.
So, if you’d like to use the Hogwarts Express to travel between the Wizarding World of Harry Potter each day, or if you’d simply like the option to spend the morning in the parks and the afternoon in the wave pool, then this is the ticket option for you.
Annual Passes for Volcano Bay
For those planning on making the trip to Volcano Bay multiple times each year, you may want to consider an annual pass instead. The only Universal Orlando annual passes with access to Volcano Bay are the 3-Park Annual Passes. These multi-visit tickets come in four different levels: Seasonal, Power, Preferred, and Premier. Each comes with its own perks and is available with both general and Florida resident pricing. The Seasonal Pass is the most affordable – though with the most blockout dates – and starts at $399 for Florida Residents and $449 for non-residents.
Volcano Bay Express Passes
Looking to save some time by skipping the lines? You’re in luck! Universal Express Passes for Volcano Bay are also available for purchase. Express Passes are available with two different options: the basic Express Pass or the Express PLUS Pass. The basic 1-Park Universal Express Pass is available from $19.99 per person daily (plus tax) and allows you to skip the line at some participating attractions at Volcano Bay, while 1-Park Universal Express PLUS Passes are available from $39.99 per person daily (plus tax) and lets you skip the line at any of the participating Volcano Bay rides.
Is that a steep price to pay for front-of-the-line access when you’re already paying for a park ticket? Sure, but if you are planning to visit more than one park each day then it’s definitely something to consider. Keep in mind that no matter which option you choose, you can only use your Express Pass at one time at each applicable attraction.
Volcano Bay Discount Tickets
Hoping to save cash on your Universal Studios Florida vacation? Of course you are! That’s why we are happy to provide some of the best discount Universal Orlando tickets around as an authorized ticket retailer. For our current deals on Volcano Bay discount tickets, click here.
TapuTapu Wristband Basics
The TapuTapu is Universal’s nifty waterproof wristband that gets passed out to each guest as they enter Volcano Bay. These handy, wearable gadgets hold the key to making your day a success. Similar to Disney’s MagicBands, the TapuTapu allows you to rent and open your locker, manage your wait in virtual lines, interact with immersive elements throughout the park, and even pay for food and souvenirs using TapTu Pay (after setting up cashless purchases on the Universal Orlando Resort app – available on both the App Store and Google Play). Don’t get too attached to it though, as you do need to return it at the end of the day.
Volcano Bay Rides and Attractions
Universal’s Volcano Bay Water Theme Park is split into four different areas – the Krakatau Volcano, Wave Village, River Village, and Rainforest Village – with each boasting its own unique rides. Overall, the park offers a family-friendly mix of attractions the whole gang can enjoy, along with attractions for the littlest of swimmers and thrill rides that both teens and adults will love. Slides are a well-rounded blend of tube, raft, and body, and there are even two different rivers to float down: a traditional lazy river and an action-packed whitewater river. There truly is something for everyone.
Krakatau Volcano
Towering 200 feet over the park, the Krakatau Volcano is the heart and namesake of Volcano Bay. Home to several waterslides (including what is arguably the park’s most thrilling ride, Ko’kiri Body Plunge), here you’ll climb through the belly of the volcano to reach some of the tallest rides in the park. Plus, with its cascading waterfalls by day and glowing lava by night, this stunning centerpiece is also a spectacular backdrop for Wave Village.
Kala & Tai Nui Serpentine Body Slides
Height Requirement: At least 48” (122cm)
Type: Water Thrill Body Slide Ride
The sea meets the moon at the top of the Krakatau Volcano, and that is where the Kala & Tai Nui Serpentine Body Slides launch from. From the drop of the door, you’ll plummet down the slide, racing your competitor as the tubes intertwine before delivering you into the crystalline waters below.
Ko’okiri Body Plunge
Height Requirement: At least 48” (122cm)
Type: Water Thrill Body Slide Ride
According to legend, the Waturi would honor Vol, the volcano god, by free falling through the depths of the volcano into the bay. Now you can take part in the storied tradition too on Ko’okiri Body Plunge. This thrilling ride starts with a 70° plunge through the drop door and concludes with 125 feet of scream-inducing fun.
Krakatau Aqua Coaster
Height Requirement: At least 42” (106cm), with supervision required if under 48” (122cm)
Type: Family Fun Water Coaster Ride
Gravity? We don’t know her. Through the magic of magnets and linear induction motor technology, the Krakatau Aqua Coaster blasts you and your four-person canoe up, around, and through the bowels of the volcano before splashing through a rushing waterfall. The first ride of its kind in the Sunshine State, this is one ride you won’t want to miss.
Punga Racers
Height Requirement: At least 42” (106cm), 300lb (136kg) or less
Type: Family Fun Body Slide Ride
Said to be a favorite pastime of the Waturi children, the Punga Racers body slides send single riders racing through one of four underwater sea caves and out into Volcano Bay. The first rider to reach the finish line even receives a special salute from Punga, son of the goddess of fire and god of the sea.
Wave Village
The peaceful retreat of Wave Village sits at the base of the Krakatau Volcano and is home to two of the waterpark’s more relaxing attractions: The Reef and Waturi Beach.
The Reef
Height Requirement: Any height
Type: Relaxing Leisure Pool
Neighboring the slightly rougher waters of Waturi Beach, The Reef is a tranquil leisure pool that reaches 5.5-feet at its deepest and features a flowing waterfall, perfect for getting in touch with your inner mermaid. This is also a fun place to watch people scream their way down the Ko’okiri Body Plunge as its clear tube runs right through the pool.
Waturi Beach
Height Requirement: Any height
Type: Family Fun Wave Pool
Hoping to catch a couple of waves? Then head on over to Waturi Beach. This glittering wave pool offers multi-directional waves and soft sand beaches. When you’re not bobbing in the water, relax for a while in the abundant seating area. If you decide to rent a cabana or get premium seating, this is one of the places they are located.
River Village
Are you traveling with kiddos to Volcano Bay? Then you won’t want to miss River Village. This colorful section of the waterpark offers several of the park’s more kid-friendly attractions, along with a thrill or two.
Honu of Honu ika Moana
Height Requirement: At least 48” (122cm)
Type: Water Thrill Raft Ride
Honu ika Moana is actually two different slides, but with a shared story. Honu pays tribute to the sea turtles who ferried the Waturi people across the waves. On this thrilling raft ride, you’ll slip and slide up the ride’s two towering walls before being deposited in the depths below.
ika Moana of Honu ika Moana
Height Requirement: At least 42” (106cm), with supervision required if under 48” (122cm)
Type: Family Fun Raft Ride
Like the sea turtle Honu, ika Moana, the whale, carried the Waturi over oceans to Volcano Bay. This longer, more family-friendly jaunt twists and turns riders on a whale-inspired journey on a multi-person raft. Keep an eye out – you may catch some spray from ika Moana’s blowhole.
Kopiko Wai Winding River
Height Requirement: Any height
Type: Relaxing Lazy River Ride
Looking for a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of Volcano Bay? Then be sure to drift down the Kopiko Wai Winding River. This lazy river ride floats riders through lush tropical landscapes and lava tubes and past gushing water sprays. When you flow under the rocks of Krakatau Volcano, be sure to look up for a twinkling view of Stargazer’s Cavern.
Runamukka Reef
Height Requirement: Any height
Type: Kids Water Play Area
Once a thriving coral reef, Runamukka Reef has since appeared above the waves and is a popular place to play for Waturi children and young Volcano Bay visitors alike. Here, kids can get hands-on with water guns, slip down slides, cool off under dump cups, and more. If you’re planning on spending a lot of time here, there are also a few cabanas in the area to rent.
Tot Tiki Reef
Height Requirement: Any height
Type: Kids Water Play Area
If it wasn’t already clear from the name, Tot Tiki Reef is the go-to place for Volcano Bay’s littlest guests to get their splash on. You’ll find an array of pint-sized features like slides, a miniature volcano, Maori-inspired tiki fountains, and even interactive whales that make noise and spray depending on how kids move their hands.
Rainforest Village
Resting on the shores of The Fearless River, TeAwa, Rainforest Village offers up exhilarating thrills, while also being an excellent place to chill out for a while.
Maku Puihi Round Raft Rides
Height Requirement: At least 42” (106cm), with supervision required if under 48” (122cm)
Type: Family Fun Raft Ride
A saucer-style raft ride, Maku and Puihi fling six-person rafts through geyser jets and lava tubs before being emptied out into a large, saucer-like bowl. There you’ll spin round and round before either being sent on another series of wild twists and turns or spit out into the water below.
Ohyah and Ohno Drop Slides
Height Requirement: At least 48” (122cm)
Type: Water Thrill Body Slide Ride
Ohyah or Ohno – which one will you be saying? These exciting body slides intertwine around one another in a winding adventure that’s really best for strong swimmers only. Why, you might ask? Because Ohyah and Ohno end by hurling riders 4 or 6 feet in the air, respectively, over a 10-foot plunge pool.
Puka Uli Lagoon
Height Requirement: Any height
Type: Relaxing Water Play Area
Need a place to hang out while the braver members of your party cruise down the Ohyah and Ohno Drop Slides? Then make your way over to Puka Uli Lagoon. This zero-entry pool ringed by a sandy beach is a great place for young ones to get their sea legs.
Taniwha Tubes
Height Requirement: At least 42” (106cm), with supervision required if under 48” (122cm)
Type: Family Fun Tube Slide Ride
Built by the Waturi as an ode to the trunks and winding roots of the puka tree, the Easter Island-inspired, blue and green tube slides of Raki and Tonga snake back and forth – with surprise splashes from Easter Island tikis. You can ride the Raki and Tonga Taniwha Tubes in either a single-rider or double-rider tube.
TeAwa The Fearless River
Height Requirement: At least 42” (106cm), with supervision required if under 48” (122cm)
Type: Water Thrill Whitewater River Ride
Looking for something a little more exciting than the lazy river? Float down TeAwa, The Fearless River, instead. But be sure to grab your life jackets because things are about to get a whole lot choppier. This whitewater adventure begins on Hammerhead Beach – with multiple entry points – and features bubbling rapids, churning waters, and fast-moving fun. If that sounds a little too rough for you and your youngest, no worries – there’s a covered seating area available in between the Taniwha Tubes and Maku Puihi.
Volcano Bay Tips & Tricks
We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again – we love getting a head start whenever we visit the parks, and the same can be said for Volcano Bay. This helps you get in front of the lines. Once you’re in, if you haven’t already made a reservation for a cabana or premier seating, make a beeline to claim some pool chairs. Bonus points if they’re in the shade.
After that, the next order of business is checking all the attractions off your to-do list. We suggest you start with the waterslides first while the lines are still relatively short. Save the rivers and the pools for later in the day when the lines are longest, as these don’t have lines in the traditional sense. You can just hop in and have fun. Or, if you plan on arriving at Volcano Bay in the afternoon, please stick to the rivers and the pools that you’re used to first, then end your day going down the slides.
Universal’s Volcano Bay Restaurants
Are you running on empty after a morning of taking the Ko’okiri Body Plunge? Luckily, there is a mountain of options to keep you and your fellow explorers well-fed and happy. Let’s go over what’s available!
Bambu
A blissfully shaded retreat towards the back of the park, Bambu is a quick service restaurant that specializes in chef-inspired burgers and sandwiches with a tropical twist. Stop in for a Bambu Burger crowned with avocado mayo and onion crisps on a Hawaiian roll or a Mahi Sandwich slathered with pineapple salsa and remoulade on toasted coconut bread.
Dancing Dragons Boat Bar
Designed to look like traditional outrigger canoes which are proudly flying sails repurposed from an old Chinese junk ship, the Dancing Dragons Boat Bar is a vibrant place to kick back and relax with your toes in the sand while sipping on something fruity and frozen. For flavors fresh from the islands, try a drink from the volcano god himself. Vol’s Fire Punch is a boozy, sweet mix of rum, pineapple juice, sprite, agave, and grenadine.
Kohola Reef Restaurant & Social Club
Looking for something to eat after climbing the peak of the Krakatau volcano? The Kohola Reef Restaurant & Social Club rests at the base of the beast, dishing up island-inspired eats like Coconut Crusted Fried Chicken, Hawaiian Ribs, a tandoori-marinated chicken sandwich, sushi, and more.
Kunuku Boat Bar
The kunuku is a storied fish that was said to have shown the Waturi the way to Volcano Bay. Today, as a landlocked bar tucked away near the back of the park, it simply guides you to a refreshing beverage. Pop by fountain sodas, as well as boozier offerings like specialty cocktails (both frozen and on-the-rocks) and beer.
The Feasting Frog
Inspired by and designed to look like – you guessed it – a tropical frog, The Feasting Frog is a quirky quick-service restaurant that serves a tempting array of both Mexican and Hawaiian-inspired classics like Carne Asada Tacos and the Poke Poke Bowl.
Whakawaiwai Eats
In the mood for familiar favorites filled with island flavors? Then Whakawaiwai Eats is for you. Overlooking both the winding river and the fearless river, this quick-service location offers up everything from Island BBQ Chicken Pizza and hot dogs to South Pacific Glazed Meatball Rice Bowls and Jerk Shrimp Mac & Cheese.
Volcano Bay Cabanas, Premium Seating & Other Rentals
From making sure you have a safe place to stash your stuff to securing a go-to spot to sit down and (hopefully) escape the Florida sun for a while, water park enthusiasts swear by going into the parks prepared. Luckily, even if you’re more likely to find yourself cruising the stores looking for a beach towel (which you neglected to pack), Volcano Bay has you covered too.
Cabana Rentals
Volcano Bay Cabanas are a pricey but plush investment if you’re looking for a private place for your rather large group. Available as both one-story single and two-story family units, these covered, open-air shelters accommodate groups of up to 6 and 16 people, respectively, and come stocked with such amenities as cushioned lounge chairs, a mini-fridge filled with water, a complimentary snack and fruit basket, a locker, towels, Guest Experience Tablet, and concierge dining with an exclusive menu that delivers directly to your cabana.
While prices fluctuate depending on when you visit, they typically range between $159.99 and $549.99 for a single cabana (available either on the upper level for bird’s-eye views, ground level for ease of access, or as a private standalone cabana) or between $299.99 and $599.99 for a family cabana (all standalone). And while we typically suggest you reserve these ahead of time, you might be able to snag yourself a sweet discount (up to 30% off) if one becomes available later in the afternoon.
Premium Seating
Alternatively, if you’re looking for a more affordable option, consider reserving Premium Seating instead. While you don’t get a building (or a chunk of one, at least) to relax in, you do get a pair of padded beach loungers, a retractable canopy shade, and a built-in lockbox. You’ll also have access to concierge dining with an exclusive food and drink menu delivered to your little slice of heaven. While the rates can still get pricey here at $139.99, they do start out at a much more reasonable $29.99.
Volcano Bay Lockers
While you could just leave things to fate and the inherent goodness of people, we still suggest you play it safe and store your stuff in a locker instead. Lockers are located in Wave Village, River Village, and Rainforest Village. Pricing is determined by what size locker you need – a mini (14.11” x 5.52” x 17.72”) costs $9 per day, a regular (13” x 12” x 16.9”) costs $13 per day, and the family (16.25” x 12” x 16.9”) costs $16. Rentals are completed, and lockers are opened, using your TapuTapu wristband.
Volcano Bay Towel Rentals
We get it – towels take up a lot of space when you’re packing. However, not bringing your own will cost you, around $5-$6 each for the day.
Volcano Bay Life Jackets
Are there smaller swimmers in your group who would feel comfortable with a bit more support? Consider getting or bringing a life vest. Life jackets are free for use and are also required for kids below 48” and for everyone on TeAwa The Fearless River. You can also bring your own if you like but it has to be US Coast Guard Approved.
Universal’s Volcano Bay Water Park FAQs
Want to know more about Volcano Bay at Universal Orlando? Read on for answers to some commonly asked questions.
How long do you need at Volcano Bay?
Universal calls Volcano Bay a water theme park. That means immersive theming, plenty of rides, and tons to explore. In other words, there is a lot to see here. So, while you could certainly try to cram Volcano Bay and another theme park into the same day, we wouldn’t recommend it. In our opinion, Volcano Bay is made to be savored, so plan to spend a good chunk of the day here to have enough time to experience everything.
Can you bring snacks into Volcano Bay?
Yes, you are able to carry your own snacks and drinks into Volcano Bay. However, no glass containers or alcohol are allowed. Additionally, if you are using a cooler, it must be soft-sided rather than hard-sided.
Does Volcano Bay have a dress code?
While there isn’t an official Volcano Bay dress code, there are still some stipulations and suggestions to keep in mind when figuring out what to wear. Swimsuits aren’t required, but if you choose to wear something else instead (like a rash guard, shorts, or a t-shirt), you may not be able to go on some slides as things like loose clothing or items with zippers or buckles may not be allowed. Additionally, although water shoes can be worn in the rivers, pools, and when walking around, they are not permitted when going down any water slides at Volcano Bay.
Is a cabana or premium seating at Volcano Bay worth it?
For many, the success of your day at a water park hinges on whether you’re able to claim a good place to sit. So, if you’re one of those people but you’d rather not get to the park right away when it opens, then you might be tempted to spring for a Volcano Bay cabana or premium seating. But, at around $160 for a 6-person cabana or $300 for a 16-person cabana, the price can be steep.
If you’re planning on hanging out at the cabana a lot and you have enough people in your party to fill it, they can be worthwhile. However, if you’re traveling alone, as a couple, or in a small family, or if you just want a convenient home base for your day, then the premium seating (around $30 per lounger) is certainly the more affordable option.
Well guys, that wraps up our Universal Volcano Bay guide. Before you get here, get some more helpful tips and tricks for your Universal Orlando with our planning guide. Then, while you’re visiting, make the most of your stay with our Universal rides and CityWalk guides.
Have you taken the Ko’okiri Body Plunge? Have you surfed the waves at Waturi Beach? If so, let us know! We love hearing about anything we may have missed.
